Dzhabrailov Scores Stunning Knockout at ONE Fight Night 42, Sam-A Delivers Thrilling Masterclass
In a remarkable turn of events, Turkish sensation Dzhabir Dzhabrailov pulled off a sensational first-round comeback to knock out American powerhouse Chase Mann, while Muay Thai legend Sam-A Gaiyanghadao delivered a breathtaking walk-off head-kick knockout of Elmehdi El Jamari in the co-main event at ONE Fight Night 42. Dzhabrailov, who had never been truly tested in his professional MMA career, faced his toughest challenge yet against Mann in the main event. Despite encountering significant adversity, Dzhabrailov ultimately emerged victorious, passing with flying colors. The 21-year-old Turkish phenom had won his previous six fights, with his last four ending in the first round. Mann immediately took control of the action, dragging Dzhabrailov to the mat and pinning him against the ropes. However, Dzhabrailov managed to stand up, avoid Mann's single-leg takedown attempt, and circle away from him. The tide began to turn as Dzhabrailov created some distance and landed a few hard shots of his own. He threw a wild right hand that missed entirely, but his momentum carried him through, and he unleashed a left hook that caught Mann flush on the button. Mann dropped to the ground, and Dzhabrailov pounced, landing two hammerfists before the referee pulled him away at 2:31 of round one. This surprise comeback victory extended Dzhabrailov's flawless record to 7-0 and marked his fifth consecutive first-round stoppage win. Meanwhile, 42-year-old Sam-A proved he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level, producing a captivating second-round knockout of El Jamari in the strawweight Muay Thai co-main event. Despite being knocked down, Sam-A remained patient and waited for El Jamari's aggression to create openings. The second round was intense, with Sam-A catching El Jamari with a left hand and knocking him down hard. El Jamari climbed upright, only to be put flat on his back again with a straight right. However, the Moroccan summoned the energy for one final rally, connecting with a left hook that sent Sam-A to the deck. Sam-A stood back up, circled deliberately, and waited for the perfect moment to strike. When El Jamari lunged forward with a left hook, Sam-A's left leg whistled through the air, his shin crashing into El Jamari's temple with precision. The Moroccan crumbled instantly, and the referee stopped the match. Sam-A's shocking performance earned him a $50,000 performance bonus and could place him back into contention for the ONE Strawweight Muay Thai world title.